Nepenthes maxima, known as the great pitcher plant, is a highly variable species of tropical pitcher plant native to New Guinea, Sulawesi, and the Maluku Islands. The wavy form refers to a distinctive morphological variant, particularly common in Sulawesi populations, where the leaf margins and decurrent wings exhibit pronounced undulations. This form is prized among collectors for its ornamental foliage and dramatic pitcher structure.
 
Habitat Overview: Climate and Soil
N. maxima inhabits a wide range of environments, from lowland rainforests to montane mossy forests, at elevations between 400 and 2,600 meters. The climate is typically humid and tropical, with frequent rainfall and cloud cover. The species grows in nutrient-poor, acidic soils, often on mossy substrates or rocky outcrops. The wavy form is most commonly found in perhumid areas, where the increased moisture supports its elaborate leaf morphology.
 
Natural Range and Distribution
The species has a broad distribution across New Guinea, Sulawesi, and nearby islands, with the wavy form localized to Sulawesi, especially in regions around 700 meters elevation. It is not considered threatened and is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, though habitat loss in some areas may impact local populations.
 
Physical Characteristics
Nepenthes maxima (wavy form) is a terrestrial or epiphytic climber, reaching up to 4 meters in height. Its leaves are obovate to lanceolate, measuring 15–30 cm long, with strongly undulate margins and decurrent wings that may ripple dramatically down the stem. The pitchers vary from narrowly cylindrical to funnel-shaped, with a broad, flared peristome and a lid that may be orbicular or ovate. Pitcher coloration ranges from green to deep red, often with speckled patterns. The wavy leaf margins result from increased cell growth near the edges, causing the surface to buckle into ripples.
 
Similar Species and Differentiation
 N. maxima belongs to the loosely defined maxima complex, which includes:
N. boschiana
N. chaniana
N. eymae
N. fusca
N. platychila
N. stenophylla
N. vogelii
 
The wavy form is distinguished by its highly undulate leaf margins, elongated decurrent wings, and robust pitcher structure. These traits are less pronounced or absent in other members of the complex. The form also shows plasticity in pitcher morphology, adapting to local humidity and prey availability.